Oh, and I've also updated and verified all the apps & prices in our Recommended Apps Spreadsheet.
If you missed this workshop, I've got a couple other iPad workshops coming up, one local and one in the UK. And if you have any questions about the info below -- seeing as it is fairly bare bones -- do leave a comment.
Yes, iPads and Apps
Really Can Help Individuals With Special Needs
Support for Families \ September 14, 2013
Really Can Help Individuals With Special Needs
Support for Families \ September 14, 2013
Shannon Des Roches Rosa | www.thinkingautismguide.com |
www.squidalicious.com
 |
| Leo tolerating post office lines and tedium, thanks to his iPad. |
Tablets: Tools, Not Miracles
- My autistic son was instantly able to learn and entertain himself independently [though, ahem, less so with iOS 7 redesign]
- However, tablets are not for everyone. Evaluate tables and apps before buying
- Tablets encourage presuming competence by enabling visual and alternative communication and learning
- Competence expressed and recognized increases self-confidence
Benefits: Accessibility and Convenience
- No cursor analogy – direct touch screen
- Fine motor ease – stylus/mouse not required (and switch accessories now available)
- So very portable (but invest in a good case)
- Can replace backpacks – and cupboards -- of activities
- App content is not static, contents updates are often free
- Siri encourages independence and articulation (iPad 3+ only)
Benefits: Learning
- So much more than an AAC device!
(Non-dedicated device status = issue, less so with Guided Access) - Apps are organized, accessible, predictable framework
- Apps break learning down into discrete chunks, topic areas
- Learn without needing to read, including read-aloud books
- Learn independently or with support (but monitoring important, with any kid)
- Incidental learning opportunities
Benefits: Social and Play
- iPads are cool, they attract other kids – including siblings
- Can support social skills, formally and informally
- Custom story apps allow preparing for transitions, routines,
meeting new people –
or re-experiencing said scenarios - Face-blindness (common with autistics): labeling and other photo-content apps can enable associating names and characteristics with people
- Independent leisure time: Learning activities, games, videos
Best Practices
- Evaluate thoroughly before buying: Tablets are expensive, apps are expensive
- Get professional evaluation for AAC apps
- Different systems work for different users
- If long-term AAC use is expected, do not want to re-learn communication system
- Get fully informed before upgrading, e.g., iOS 6 deleted YouTube app,
Overuse and Abuse?
- What about study: “Autistic Kids Obsess Over Screen Technology”? [1]
- Autistic adults say “Yes, we’re visual and very focused, why not explore how to harness these traits productively.”
- Savvy kids can be experts, help other kids, mentor them.
- For 1:1 kids, independent is good, not bad!
- Valid concern for those who need support to manage screen time
When iPads Are Not in Your Budget
- Go through insurance, school district – write into IEP
- AAC evaluation
- SLP recommendation
- Research (longitudinal studies are ongoing)
- Fundraise: Community/Online – it works! (Small commissions charged)
- iPad Donation Charities – watch out for scams
iPad Protection – Insurance, AppleCare, Loss
- All iPads come with 90 days of phone support and one year limited warranty
- Insurance (3rd party): Protects against damage and physical loss
- AppleCare: Service, support for technical issues, up to two years
- iTunes remembers purchases, will let you re-download for free
iPad Protection – Cases, Covers, Other Accessories
- Cases: Protection vs. Convenience
- All-Purpose Cases: ZooGue, Targus, InCase, Shutterfly (custom photo)
- Keyboard: Logitech, Targus, Zagg, Brookstone (can be bulky)
- Protective: Otterbox Defender, GumDrop Military, Trident Kraken, Griffin Survivor
Apps Demonstrated
Free: iAdvocate • Draw With Stars • MyScript Calculator • 30/30 •
EveryTrail • NeoPaul
Customizable: Kid in Story •WordSLaPps • Popplet • Write My Name
Customizable: Kid in Story •WordSLaPps • Popplet • Write My Name
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